As the tricolor soars on high,
We celebrate, but I must sigh—
For freedom’s song, though loud and clear,
Is muted still by cries of fear.
In Kolkata’s streets, a shadow fell,
A tale of pain, too harsh to tell.
Yet it’s not alone, this cry of woe,
For countless more, in silence, grow.
We speak of freedom, proud and grand,
Yet fear still grips this sacred land.
How can we claim we’re truly free,
When half our hearts in terror be?
The dawn of independence came,
But with it still, a burning flame—
A flame of anger, grief, and fight,
For justice cloaked in endless night.
True freedom is not just a dream,
But in each step where women gleam,
In streets unmarked by fear’s cold hand,
In justice swift, and strong, and grand.
But patriarchy’s chains still bind,
And justice often lags behind.
Can we rejoice, when so many weep,
When safety’s but a fleeting sleep?
On this day of pride, let’s vow anew,
To build a world both just and true—
Where every woman, every girl,
Can stand as free as flags unfurl.
For until that day, we cannot rest,
Our freedom’s song is but a test.
Jai Hind, we cry, but let it be,
A call for true equality.
Happy 78th Independence Day to India!